Traffic in Durham
In 2024, Durham, NC, sees a predominant reliance on cars for commuting, with a significant 90.9% of residents choosing this mode of transport.
Public transportation, particularly buses, accounts for a smaller share of the commuting landscape, representing 9.1% of the total.
Average Commute Times
The average commute involves 20.09 minutes of driving, with minimal waiting and walking times.
- Bus - Bus commuters spend about 5 minutes on the bus, with additional time spent waiting and walking.
- Car - Car commuters experience an average driving time of 22.1 minutes, with a short walking time of 1.2 minutes.
Traffic Breakdown
Traffic Data
Overall average travel
Average when primarily using Bus
Average when primarily using Car
More Information
Seasonal Trends
Traffic tends to increase during the fall as students return to universities, impacting commute times.
Winter months see a slight decrease in traffic due to holiday breaks and adverse weather conditions.
Commuter Pain Points
Heavy reliance on cars leads to congestion during peak hours, especially on major highways.
Limited public transport options can result in longer wait times and less convenience for non-car users.
Best Travel Times
Commuters are advised to travel before 7 AM or after 9 AM to avoid peak traffic congestion.
Evening commutes are less congested after 7 PM.
Event Impacts
Public events, such as university sports games and festivals, can significantly increase traffic in downtown Durham.
Planning travel around these events can help avoid delays.
Sustainability Efforts
Durham is exploring the expansion of bike lanes and pedestrian pathways to promote eco-friendly commuting.
The city is also considering investments in electric bus fleets to reduce carbon footprints.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have eased some congestion by reducing the number of cars on the road.
However, they also contribute to traffic during peak hours as drivers wait for passengers.
